SYDNEY: David Warner is set to make a full-time appearance in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the first time in his career after signing a new two-year contract with Sydney Thunder, while Steve Smith will stay in the competition beyond his Test career with a new three-year contract with Sydney Sixers.
Warner’s availability for the full season is going to be great for the Thunder. The swashbuckling opener is now free to focus solely on the BBL after recently ending his international career.
Warner, who featured in only eight matches for the Thunder in the last two seasons due to international commitments, will now use his nearly 20 years of T20 experience throughout the tournament, including the final.
“Davey is a popular name wherever he plays, especially in India, and I know the South Asian community in Sydney’s west will be very supportive of him at Thunder,” manager Trent Copeland said.
“In Davey we get a world-class talent, and now that he has retired from international cricket, we can count on his commitment for the entire tournament.”
Meanwhile, Smith has secured his future with the Sixers through a three-year contract. Smith is currently Australia’s Test opener, but the deal gives him the option to play a full season of the BBL if he decides to retire from international cricket in the next three years.
However, Smith has remained tight-lipped about his Test future. “I have no plans. I’m just enjoying the game at the moment, I’m pretty relaxed and looking forward to this summer,” he said.
